Cape Town is preparing for one of its biggest Women’s Day celebrations as the 2026 Totalsports Women’s Race returns to the city on Sunday, 9 August, bringing thousands of runners and supporters into the heart of the CBD.
While the event promises another energetic morning of fitness, entertainment and community spirit, it will also mean temporary road closures and traffic restrictions across several major streets. Residents, commuters and visitors are encouraged to make alternative travel plans and allow extra time for their journeys.
Around 10 000 participants are expected to gather at the Grand Parade, where the race will both begin and end for different distances, transforming the city centre into a vibrant celebration of women’s sport.
A Women’s Day tradition returns to the Mother City
Held annually on Women’s Day, the Totalsports Women’s Race has become one of Cape Town’s most anticipated road-running events. Beyond the competition, the race celebrates women of all ages and fitness levels, attracting elite athletes, recreational runners and families alike.
The 2026 edition will once again feature live entertainment and activations along the route, creating a festival atmosphere throughout the morning.
Stillwater Sports Managing Director Michael Meyer said organisers are excited to welcome thousands of participants while working to minimise disruption for the surrounding community.
He thanked residents, businesses and retailers for their patience and support, adding that organisers have carefully planned the event to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience for runners and spectators.
Race information
Date: Sunday, 9 August 2026
Starting points:
- 10km Race: Darling Street
- 5km Race: Castle Street
Finish venue:
- Grand Parade, Cape Town
Roads affected across the city centre
Traffic restrictions will begin as early as 4am, with some roads remaining closed until 1pm.
Among the busiest roads affected are:
- Darling Street
- Corporation Street
- Castle Street
- Constitution Street
- Hanover Street
- Canterbury Street
- Sir Lowry Road
- Buitenkant Street
- Bree Street
- Long Street
- Orange Street
- Wale Street
- Plein Street
- Harrington Street
- Leeuwen Street
- Barrack Street
Several surrounding streets throughout District Six, the City Bowl and the CBD will also experience temporary full closures, lane restrictions, contraflow traffic arrangements and resident-only access during different times of the morning.
The earliest closures on Corporation Street, Darling Street and Castle Street will run from 04:00 until 13:00, while many roads along the race route will be restricted between 07:00 and approximately 10:45.
Plan your Sunday travel
Motorists travelling through Cape Town’s city centre on Sunday morning should expect delays, particularly around the Grand Parade, District Six and adjoining CBD streets.
Public transport users and anyone attending church services, markets or other Women’s Day activities are advised to leave earlier than usual and use alternative routes where possible.
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Picture: Women’s Race / Facebook
